Royal Caribbean’s Royal Pitch competition returns with a larger prize fund, targeting travel agents in a consortium. The increased pool, now at £300,000, signifies a strategic push, emphasising innovation and growth within the travel sector. Engaging industry leaders such as Levi Roots ensures a high-profile judging panel. Travel agents have multiple opportunities to enter over the next year, starting in April.
Royal Caribbean has launched the second season of its Royal Pitch competition, enhancing the prize pool to £300,000. This initiative specifically targets travel agents who are members of a consortium, reflecting the cruise line’s commitment to fostering innovative business ideas within the industry.
In the past year, £200,000 was invested in business concepts from 20 travel agents. Now, with an increased prize fund, the competition aims to attract even more participants and proposals. Royal Caribbean’s strategy underscores its focus on expanding entrepreneurial opportunities for those in the travel sector.
The judging panel includes prominent figures such as entrepreneur Levi Roots, and Royal Caribbean’s vice-president of Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Ben Bouldin. Such leaders bring a wealth of experience and credibility to the competition, ensuring that only the most promising ideas are recognised and rewarded.
The competition format remains unchanged, offering four rounds of pitching over the next 12 months. This structure provides ample opportunity for agents to present their ideas, with the first round open for entry in early April. The initial live pitching event is scheduled for 26 June at Royal Caribbean’s headquarters in Weybridge, Surrey.
Travel agents are required to submit a video proposal via the Club Royal website, detailing their business concept and requested investment in under five minutes. During live final events, judges will decide which ideas will secure part of the substantial prize pool.
Stuart Byron, the line’s director of sales for UK, Ireland, and Spain, encourages travel agents to participate, citing the competition’s potential to support innovative thinking.
Entrepreneur Levi Roots noted, “Over the last 12 months, we’ve seen some strong and inspiring pitches. I’m excited to see what fresh ideas agents have to offer.”
Overall, the expanded Royal Pitch competition presents a significant opportunity for travel agents to secure vital investment through innovative proposals.
